IPOH — Perak’s new Menteri Besar Zambry Abdul Kadir began his first day in office defending the legitimacy of his government, arguing that a majority in Perak backed the Barisan Nasional as the opposition sought to challenge his appointment.

Mr Zambry was sworn-in last Friday by Sultan Azlan Shah while riot police outside quelled a protest by thousands of people, most of whom supported the Pakatan Rakyat.

When asked by reporters if he thought he has the support of a majority of the public in Perak, he replied: “That is why we are here.”

But he appeared to be feeling the strain of defending what has been an obviously unpopular and possibly unconstitutional takeover of the state.

When it was pointed out that he did not gain his position as Menteri Besar via an election, he grew visibly defensive and snapped back: “What do you mean? This is a democratic process.

“Do you understand democracy? I am asking you, do you understand the political philosophy of democracy?

“I am asking you back. Why are you not asking them (Pakatan Rakyat) back when they are talking about the party hopping?

“When they triggered everything right from the very beginning. You should askyourself about that.”

When it was clarified that the question was not about defections but whether he feels he has the support of the majority of Perakians, he finally replied: “God willing, when you prove to the people your worth.”